Step 1: Take a Moment to Breathe and Get Oriented
Losing a federal job isn’t just about paperwork. It’s a full stop — one that can shake your confidence, disrupt your plans, and leave you wondering what comes next. Whether you were part of a RIF, took a buyout, or saw your position disappear in a reorganization, it’s a tough situation. However, here’s the good news: you have options.
Before diving into action, take a moment to process what’s happened. Acknowledge the emotional impact of a layoff. You may feel overwhelmed or even a bit lost — that’s normal. It’s important not to rush. Give yourself space to regroup. By doing so, you’ll be in a better mental space to face the next steps.
Once you feel ready, start focusing on what comes next. Layoffs often represent a transition, not the end. In fact, they can offer you a chance to rethink your career path, find new opportunities, and aim for more fulfillment in the future. This is your next chapter, not the final page of the story.
Step 2: Know Your Benefits After a Federal Layoff
Once you’ve taken the time to breathe, it’s crucial to understand your benefits. You may qualify for several options:
- Severance or VSIP: You might be eligible for severance pay or a Voluntary Separation Incentive Payment (VSIP) if offered. This one-time lump sum can provide financial support during your transition. Be sure to understand how it impacts your taxes.
OPM Severance and VSIP Policy - Payout for Unused Annual Leave: Your unused annual leave will be paid out at your current salary rate. This is a critical source of income, so ensure you know how much you’re entitled to.
OPM Annual Leave Policy - Temporary Continuation of Health Benefits (FEHB): Losing your federal job doesn’t mean losing your healthcare coverage. You can continue your FEHB for up to 18 months under the Temporary Continuation of Coverage (TCC) program.
OPM FEHB Continuation (TCC) Policy - Unemployment Insurance: You might qualify for unemployment insurance through the UCX (Unemployment Compensation for Ex-servicemen) program. This could provide vital income while you search for your next role.
U.S. Department of Labor UCX Benefits Information - Priority Placement Under CTAP or ICTAP: If you’re displaced, you might be eligible for priority placement in other federal jobs through the Career Transition Assistance Plan (CTAP) or Interagency Career Transition Assistance Plan (ICTAP).
OPM CTAP and ICTAP Policies
These benefits are crucial to your transition. Don’t leave anything on the table. Contact HR to ensure you’re receiving all of the benefits you qualify for.
For more on preparing for layoffs, check out our post on using HR resources for career transition.
Step 3: Secure Your Records After a Layoff
One of the first things you should do is secure your SF-50 (Standard Form 50), which documents your federal service. You’ll need this form if you’re applying for other federal jobs or to verify your employment for retirement or benefits. Don’t wait until you need it. Download it now and store it in a safe place.
Once you have the SF-50, it’s critical to ensure you have access to your eOPF (electronic Official Personnel Folder). You can retrieve this document from the agency’s HR system. If you’re no longer with the agency, your SF-50 forms will be available through the National Personnel Records Center.
Here’s the link to access your eOPF:
Access your eOPF here
If you’re separated, you can request your SF-50 through the National Personnel Records Center:
Request Records from NPRC
Step 4: Don’t Just React — Reframe Your Career Goals
After a federal layoff, it’s easy to rush into the first available job. But now is a good time to ask yourself important questions:
- Do I still want to pursue a career in government?
- Am I open to exploring private-sector opportunities?
- What roles would provide personal satisfaction and growth?
Taking time to reflect will ensure that your next role aligns with your long-term career goals. Use this time as an opportunity to reframe your career trajectory and identify what truly excites you about the next step.
Step 5: Update Your Resume for the Private Sector
Your federal resume might not be the best fit for private-sector jobs. Employers outside of government often expect resumes that are concise and results-oriented. Follow these tips to revamp your resume:
- Keep your formatting clean and simple
- Use short bullet points that focus on achievements and outcomes
- Remove any government-specific jargon
- Highlight your transferable skills — leadership, project management, problem-solving
Consider having your resume reviewed by a professional who specializes in private-sector transitions. This investment can make all the difference in landing interviews.
Updating your resume is a critical step. It’s something I walk you through in detail in my upcoming book, From Service to Second Act, launching on June 15, 2025. You can join the waitlist here to get updates.
Mistakes to Avoid After a Federal Layoff
- Relying on your old federal resume — it won’t help in most private-sector searches.
- Waiting too long to take action — the sooner you start, the better.
- Thinking you have to start over — you’re bringing valuable experience with you.
Final Thought: Embrace the Change
While layoffs are tough, they don’t have to define your career. This is a chance to reset and pursue new, more fulfilling opportunities. Take one step at a time, and remember, you don’t have to do this alone.
If you’re unsure of what’s next, take time to explore different options. With the right mindset and planning, you can turn this challenge into a great opportunity.
Written by: Joanne Davis, HR Talent Insights
1 thought on “What to Do After a Federal Layoff: Steps & Benefits”
Comments are closed.